This may not be the very finest example of a Rolex Explorer II 16570, but it must surely be one of the best priced. Produced in 2001 according to its serial number and first sold in 2002 as confirmed by the original paperwork, this is an honest, original and unpolished example of one of Rolex’s most respected sports watches.

Recently serviced, pressure tested and running perfectly, this Explorer II offers a fantastic opportunity for someone seeking a genuine, well-maintained example without paying collector-grade money.

Key Details

• Model: Rolex Explorer II
• Reference: 16570
• Year: 2001 (sold 2002)
• Case Size: 40mm
• Case Material: Stainless steel
• Bezel: Fixed stainless steel bezel with black engraved markings
• Dial: Black
• Hour Markers: Luminous markers
• Hands: Luminous hands with GMT hand
• Crystal: Sapphire crystal
• Movement: Rolex Calibre 3185 automatic
• Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, GMT
• Bracelet: Rolex Oyster bracelet
• Clasp: Folding clasp
• Bracelet Links: 11 links fitted (additional links can be sourced)
• Water Resistance: Pressure tested
• Guarantee: 12‑month mechanical guarantee

Condition Report

Case: Original and unpolished with noticeable scratches and wear throughout. No significant dings or dents.
Bezel: Honest wear consistent with age and use.
Dial: Clean and original with excellent legibility.
Crystal: Chips and scratches present. We intend to replace the crystal, however the watch is currently priced to reflect its existing condition.
Bracelet: Original Oyster bracelet showing wear consistent with age and use.
Overall: A genuine, worn and original example that has been mechanically maintained rather than cosmetically restored.

Working Order

Recently serviced and pressure tested.
Running perfectly and operating exactly as expected.
All functions working correctly.
Supplied with our 12‑month mechanical guarantee.

Our View

The Explorer II 16570 has become one of the most sought-after modern vintage Rolex sports watches. This example won’t win any concours competitions, but that’s exactly part of its appeal. It remains original, unpolished and honest, showing the sort of wear expected from a watch that has actually been enjoyed.

For those who value originality over perfection, this represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a black dial 16570 at a highly attractive price point. Mechanically it’s exactly where you want it to be — recently serviced and running perfectly — while cosmetically it retains all the character of a genuine tool watch.